Alchemy of Souls

This review is based on the first 8 episodes as of now. I really hope it continues this way till the very end.

It is a fantasy world that will feel utterly real to you. The plot , storyline, characters, direction, comedic timing, visuals , costumes, CGI , acting .. everything is just perfect.

The only other fantasy story I loved this much was Harry Potter. The two are totally different in terms of story but they both are phenomenal works of art.

The plot and character growth is absolutely brilliant. There has been a lot of thought put into every character. You'll find yourself caring for all the supporting characters as well.

The male lead is charming, bold, funny and somewhat adorably childish at times. I also love his costumes. You'll find him dressed in magnificent shades of blue that are a treat to the eyes. I find myself constantly admiring the costumes and hair styles of the two leads.

I love shows with a strong female characters and this one does not disappoint. The female lead can hold her own in the show. She is smart, pursues what she wants with a reckless boldness and is utterly refreshing to watch. I don't think anyone else could have done a better job than Jung So Min.

Another thing I love about this show is how beautifully and effortlessly it changes from serious to funny within the blink of an eye. The background music and sound effects are perfect. I find myself laughing out loud in many places.

All supporting characters are amazing too.

The action and CGI is equally good. It keeps you on edge. One day I was literally banging on the table in front of me.. I was so excited ;)

It is a series I can rewatch multiple times because it is so entertaining.

If you haven't started this one yet, do yourself a favor- watch it.

You won't regret!

I watch parts 1 and 2 back to back. Like many, I was disappointed by the last two episodes of part one. That was simply because I wanted a happy story resolution. The writers could easily have done that but logically expanded the story to its next logical step. If I had to wait a season between parts, I would have been devastated. Fortunately I didn't have to do that, going straight to the second part. I was tremendously rewarded.

In total, there's 30 episodes, each running up to an hour and a half. That is a massive amount of story!!!

I'll keep it short. This series, even when viewed as a dub, is one of the best, if not the best (depending on the day) televised programs that I have ever been privileged to watch. The writing was incredibly well done. The world building was intricately developed. The acting was top notch. The production and music was excellent.

I can't recommend this more highly. Absolutely superb.

Oh this series, I am in love with this. After long long time a Kdrama to get me hooked.

The best thing of this show is How interesting the character of Lee Jae - Wook's is. I mean you expect typical historical/ Joeson character but no, he is completely different with great comic timing and seriousness when its needed.

His flirting scenes with Mu Deok is so subtle.

One more thing to add here, apart from the good CGI and different story, is that unlike every other historical show there is no rush to make lead couple fall in love immediately. Its new take on historical show. They hate, they curse, they fight, there are moments between them. I like it.

Last but not the least, the female lead - Jung So Min's character is very strongly built and it is not getting faded in the course of romance. Loving it.

A little spoiler which is not spoiler at all - It is very funny to watch that everytime she wants to help him she puts both of them in danger.

Once in a while you come across a hidden jewel which outshines everything around. This is one of those gems which is par excellence. A must see, it has twists and turns, plots and sub plots, just when you think you've figured out the plot it goes into a totally unexpected dimension.

Don't understand a word of the language but the subtitles are very well done.

Moreover its got superb acting by all the main characters.

For me it's been the fantasy series of the year so far.

A very well made Korean Fantasy-Drama. While it seemed more like a fantasy and martial arts story initially, the series gradually evolves with elements of comedy, politics and romance. The script and direction are phenomenal and so are the characters. Kudos to the makers!